Parents speak about autism spike

One in every sixty eight children in the United States has an autism spectrum disorder .That's a thirty percent increase from two years ago. The recent findings were released Thursday by the Center for Disease Control (CDC). Research into the cause, whether it's genetic, environmental or vaccination-related, is currently underway.

The Autism Society of Acadiana says the increase in numbers is also being felt locally. But some parents with autistic children say there're not worried about the spike as they are with what's causing it.

According to Carolyn Gill-Moore, who has two daughters with Autism, more and more children are being diagnosed not just with autism but other learning disabilities. Gill-Moore wants more research done to find out what's causing the disability. According to the new report, the CDC estimates 1 in 42 boys has autism, that's 4-and a half times as many as girls. The Autism Society of Acadiana will host their annual Walk for Hope fundraiser next Saturday at Blackham Coliseum.

It's aimed at improving the lives of all affected by autism in Acadiana. For more information visit www.acadianaautism.com